Description
Homemade peppermint bark delights holiday guests with its simple, festive charm. Crisp chocolate layers meld with cool mint, creating a classic seasonal treat perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200 g (7 oz) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 200 g (7 oz) white chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp peppermint extract (optional)
- ½ cup (75 g) crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Preparation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a smooth surface for chocolate layering.
- Dark Chocolate Base: Melt dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, stirring to prevent scorching. Infuse with peppermint extract and spread evenly across the prepared surface.
- Setting the Foundation: Refrigerate the dark chocolate layer until fully solidified, ensuring a firm base for the white chocolate topping.
- White Chocolate Layer: Melt white chocolate with remaining peppermint extract, maintaining a velvety consistency. Pour over the chilled dark chocolate layer, using a spatula to distribute evenly.
- Peppermint Decoration: Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies across the soft white chocolate, gently pressing to secure them in place.
- Final Chilling: Return the bark to the refrigerator, allowing it to completely harden and merge the layers into a cohesive confection.
- Breaking and Storing: Once set, lift the parchment paper and break the bark into rustic, irregular pieces. Transfer to an airtight container, preserving its crisp texture and festive flavor for up to two weeks at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Melt Chocolate with Care: Use a double boiler or microwave at low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning and maintain smooth chocolate texture.
- Prevent Chocolate Separation: Ensure chocolate melts slowly and evenly, avoiding water contact to stop potential seizing or grainy consistency.
- Enhance Peppermint Intensity: Adjust peppermint extract quantity based on personal preference, starting with small amounts to control flavor strength.
- Storage Secret: Keep bark in cool, dry place to maintain crisp texture and prevent chocolate from developing white film or losing its glossy appearance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 15
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg